My journey had been sailing smoothly. I held a respectable position in a prominent bank and maintained a fine balance between work and personal life.
The pivotal moment of change came when I decided to quit my job and sought solace in the virtual realms of the internet to understand my condition better. However, the barrage of information about Multiple Sclerosis (MS) left me feeling overwhelmed and despondent, as if my entire life had been derailed. It was during this tumultuous time that I stumbled upon the Multiple Sclerosis Society of India (MSSI), a beacon of hope in my darkest hour.
At MSSI, I found more than just answers; I found a community that embraced me with open arms and showed me that life after diagnosis was not the end, but a new beginning. They offered guidance, support, and even employment opportunities. For six months, I worked alongside them, not only regaining my health but also my confidence. Inspired by their unwavering support, I took on the role of counseling fellow MS patients, empowering them to embrace life’s challenges with resilience.
Despite my newfound strength, MS resurfaced in unexpected ways, manifesting as debilitating vertigo attacks that made it impossible to fulfill my job responsibilities. Despite my compassionate boss and supportive workplace environment, I made the difficult decision to resign, prioritizing my health above all else.
It was during one of MSSI’s events that I crossed paths with the esteemed Milind Soman, whose encouragement ignited a spark of determination within me. Following his advice, I embarked on a journey of physical rehabilitation, starting with small steps and gradually building up to participating in the Standard Chartered Half Marathon. Though initially daunted by the challenge, I refused to succumb to doubt, drawing strength from Lance Armstrong’s famous words: “Crawl to the finish line, if you have to, but you don’t quit.” With unwavering resolve and the support of my friend Geeta from MSSI, I crossed the 21-kilometer mark, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Now faced with the task of rebuilding my life once again, I turned to my creative instincts, discovering a newfound passion for crafting home décor and gifting products. With MSSI’s support, I ventured into the world of corporate gifting, finding success and fulfillment in creating a niche for myself.
As I reflect on my journey thus far, I am reminded that with perseverance and determination, no challenge is insurmountable. Though the road ahead may be fraught with obstacles, I remain steadfast in my belief that with the right mindset and unwavering determination, I will continue to overcome whatever life throws my way.
MSP Jigna Chanpura | Age 49
